When Donald Trump put himself forward to become the Republican candidate in this year's U.S. presidential election, no rational observer thought he had a chance of succeeding. Now the polls suggest that he could defeat Hillary Clinton and become the next president of the United States despite the loathing that he has stirred up within the U.S. and the horror aroused among America's friends around the world.

Trump has blustered and lied his way to fame. He seems to think that the more he reiterates his untruths the more they are likely to be believed, however irrational and implausible they are. The greater the lie the louder he rants.

Like a spoiled schoolboy he screams personal insults at anyone who opposes or criticizes him. He takes pleasure in public displays of bullying.